Definition
Enthesitis is an inflammation that affects the tendon insertion area on the bone.
Often, this condition is caused by wear and functional overload that occurs during sports and work ( degenerative entesiti ).
The inflammatory process can also occur following traumas and in the context of more complex pathologies, such as ankylosing spondylitis and some forms of arthritis. Vascular disorders, autoimmune diseases and endocrine disorders (such as diabetes) can also contribute to the onset of osteitis.
Most common symptoms and signs *
- Articolar pains
- Muscle pains
- Joint swelling
- weakness
- Nodule
- Joint stiffness
- Articular noises
Further indications
Enthesitis occurs mainly with pain on insertion of a muscle or tendon on the bone; this sensation increases or appears by performing a movement that involves the use of the affected junctional area and can be evoked by pressure.
If neglected, this condition can induce swelling of inflamed structures and reduced functionality of the affected skeletal segment.
Enthesitis can evolve into fibrosis and lead to calcifications near the muscle-tendon junction. Sometimes, there can be a noticeable decrease in the strength of the affected muscle group and the traumatic rupture of the enthesis; in the latter case, a sharp and sudden pain appears.
Esentitis is defined clinically through the patient's medical history and examination, associated with imaging (echography and magnetic resonance of the painful area).
The therapy includes rest, intake of anti-inflammatory drugs and, possibly, local infiltration of corticosteroids. Instead, tendon injuries may include surgical treatment.
